Some of the best times to go hiking with your dog is in the summer months. Not only can you get exercise but so will your dog from any hiking you do. Hiking with your dog can be a pleasurable activity, so long as you and your dog are both happy with the conditions of the hike. It’s possible for a dog to die from conditions like heat stroke so always take note of a few things before embarking on that summer hiking trip.
First of all, it is important to train your dog for the hike. Not all dogs are fit for intense hikes, but some breeds can be trained. For example, Siberian huskies are fit for long winter hikes, but a chihuahua is obviously not. Start with nearly-flat trails with some obstacles such as rocks, before proceeding with steeper trails. This would improve their endurance and increase the strength of their joints and muscles.
Dog training is not only limited to your dog’s physical condition, but also its response to your commands. Your dog should understand basic voice commands. Otherwise, your trip will only tire you out as you get your pet under control.
Be also aware of regulations covering pets and hiking trails. Some hiking trails specifically ban dogs from hiking with their owners. Meanwhile others, will require your pet to be on a leash the whole time. Consult with the park management to find out all requirements.
Prepare your gear for the unknown. Among the things that you need to prepare specifically for your dog are the following:
- Collar and leash
- Identification card with picture of your dog if possible
- First aid kit
- Number of your pet’s veterinarian
- Water (lots of it)
- Dog food
- Footwear (depending on the season and the kind of terrain)
- Sun protector
- Plastic bag for your dog’s waste
When hiking with your dog, its always smart to keep your pet on a leash unless you reach designated areas where you can remove it. Dogs usually love the outdoors and can easily get distracted by other hikers or animals in the wild. Always keep an eye out for the things on the trail that your dog smells. Allow abundant time for rest and water breaks. Observe signs of distress to see if you should go on with the trip and consult medical attention immediately when in doubt. Dogs can push themselves to exhaustion or until their legs give out, so be sure to watch your dog for signs of this. You can also consult your Vet to see if your dog is in good health for a long hike. Be sure to save money when purchasing anything for your dog through 1800Petmed by using a 1800petmeds coupon code.
Remember that hiking with your dog is more about having fun than reaching the end of the trail or the top of a mountain.
